Pope Francis has established a new lay ministry for catechists. He did so by issuing a Motu Proprio titled Antiquum ministerium, or 'ancient ministry.'
The letter was formally presented at the Vatican. In it the Pope recalls that the ministry of the Catechist is an ancient one, since theologians cite examples of catechists in the writings of the New Testament. In this way, catechists evoke the way the first Christians used to evangelize.
ABP. RINO FISICHELLA
President, Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization
'It is important to note that the Motu Proprio does not refer to consecrated persons, not because they cannot be catechists, but rather because this function is already included in their vocation. The institution of this ministry is for lay people.'
The document makes clear that this new ministry is not a clericalization of the laity.
FRANZ-PETER TEBARTZ-VAN ELST
Catechetical Delegate, Pont. Cons. for the New Evangelization
'In the sixth point of the document, the Pope describes the importance of not creating confusion. That the catechist should not assume liturgical responsibilities or those of other ministries, but that through their own witness they can be a companion and a teacher in their own vocation.'
It will now be up to bishops' conferences to establish formation procedures for those entering this new ministry.
In the meantime, the Congregation for Divine Worship is preparing the rite of initiation for the lay ministry of catechist.
Daniel Diaz Vizzi
TR: JM
